October 25, 2022

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

On July 16, 2021, Pope Francis issued the Apostolic Letter motu proprio, Traditionis Custodes, issuing new norms governing the celebration of the Mass according to the Missal of 1962.

At the time of the motu proprio and the subsequent release of the Responsa ad Dubia, published by the Congregation for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments on December 18, 2021, I instructed the priests presently celebrating the antecedent liturgy that they were free to continue supporting the communities utilizing this form of the Mass, after requesting permission from me personally. At that time, I relayed to the communities that a time of study and reflection would commence in order to determine the most appropriate course of action to remain faithful to the Holy Father’s directives.

In June 2022, I requested permission for several parishes to continue the celebration of the Traditional Latin Mass in their parish churches. Following a response on July 6, 2022, from the Dicastery for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments, I am implementing the motu proprio in the Diocese of Richmond.

The Very Reverend Brian W. Capuano, J.C.L., Vicar for Vocations and Interim Director of the Office of Worship has been delegated to care for the communities attached to the Missal of 1962 and will assist these communities and the priests designated to assist them in the proper ordering of the Mass in fidelity to the directives issued by the Holy Father in Traditionis Custodes.

While I recognize that these new directives will result in some changes to the liturgical life in a few of our parishes, I invite the faithful to a robust adherence to the Gospel and the teaching of the Church.

May we pray together for the grace of the Holy Spirit to enliven our faith through the sacred liturgy as we seek a unity in liturgical practice and fidelity to the Church.

Sincerely in Christ,

Most Reverend Barry C. Knestout

Bishop of Richmond

*To read the full decree, please visit the Office of Worship website or click here 

**For any questions, please direct them to [email protected]